No Power to A/C Compressor Clutch

[szklarek]

I noticed the air conditioning compressor clutch wasn't working (ie not engaging) when the a/c was switched on. The lights on the CCU appear as normal when the a/c is switched on and there is the usual change in fan speed when the a/c 'boost' button is depressed. I've checked the power line right by the compressor clutch and, when the a/c is on, there is no voltage. So either the CCU is not delivering the voltage or a fuse or relay has gone (or wiring damage perhaps) - looking at the list of fuses and relays listed on the fuse box lid (in the boot) there isn't one specifically listed for the compressor clutch. Are there any fuses/relays elsewhere and/or has anyone gone any other suggestions? (Tomorrow I will try applying power directly to the clutch but I'll need to disconnect the power feed first to ensure that, if there is a problem upstream in the wiring, I don't make matters worse!)

Kind regards
Anton

 

[barrysmith]

From what I can recall, if the system is empty of gas , it shuts down the compresser , might be it just needs re gassing

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

As Barry said, there is a pressure switch up front near the evaporator which prevents the clutch being engaged if there is insufficient refrigerant pressure in the system. It would be worth popping into somewhere like Kwikfit to get the pressure checked before wasting your time checking other stuff.

Dave

 

[szklarek]

Thanks guys - I'll get that checked out.

Kind regards
Anton

 

[Porker993]

Do Kwikfit do Aircon re-gas ?

Might try that. Is it any good ? Anybody got any experience of it ? How much etc etc.

Thanks

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

ORIGINAL: Porker993

Do Kwikfit do Aircon re-gas ?

Might try that. Is it any good ? Anybody got any experience of it ? How much etc etc.

Thanks

They certainly have the equipment to do it. I assume they do it all year round rather than just in the Summer. I had my 964 done there last year - it was about £42 I seem to remember. They also did a no charge, no charge deal then where if their equipment detected a leak they wouldn't charge you (or it!!).

It's no different going to KwikFit than any other a/c company. It's all done with automatic equipment that evacuates the existing refrigerant, does a pressure test and refills with the correct amount of refrigerant and oil. There's not a lot they can do to screw it up. It takes about an hour - so take a book!!!

Regards

Dave